...It appears the Masanori Ishikawawill be the Swallows opening day pitcher. Based on the current schedule, Ishikawa is scheduled to pitch on the 12th and 19th. That would put him in line with the opening day starts on the 26th against the Yomiuri Giants (6 days of rest between each start). Ishikawa is 3-1 when he pitches on opening day.

Shigeru Takada told reporters that the current schedule was put together with the opening day start already in mind.

...Norichika Aokiwill apparently be wearingEvil Eye Pro (addidas) sunglasses (with a gold frame) while playing in the outfield this year. He sat down with a rep from Addidas on Tuesday after the Lotte game was canceled.

...Shohei Tateyamais still on track to pitch two innings in relief against the Seibu Lions on the Thursday (right shoulder discomfort). Kyohei Muranakawill pitch against the Nippon Ham Fighters on Sunday (back and hip tightness). Muranaka also threw 60 pitches in the bullpen on Tuesday.